North Hop 2015 - Underestimation of Aberdonians

After the success of 2014’s inaugural North Hop in Inverness, the organiser and hostess with the mostess was plagued by enquires to have a similar event ‘doon in the ‘Deen!’. Obligingly, Michelle set about at the tail end of last year to organise a weekend of beer, gin, music and food.

This weekend past has seen a dizzy haze of pre and post events along with a festival split into two sessions at Aberdeen’s music and arts venue, The Lemon Tree.

Friday night saw two events starting at our neighbours up the road, Brewdog. A fun filled jazz & beer party kicked the weekend off from 6pm with some funky guest beers and even funkier jazz! Next, and not too far away our pals at The Tippling House hosted Drygate brewery tap takeover. Chris Williams of Williams Bros fame was there to lead a beery Q&A with The Tippling House regulars.

Saturday came and so did the queues! Pre midday and the North Hoppers we filed almost up to King Street (if you know Aberdeen, that’s fairly far!). The gathering of thirsty Aberdonians were eager to sample the exhibitors wares.

It was apparent very quickly that this lot were here for a good time and all the stalls were pulling dinks, fixing cocktails and preparing food in a flash! This continued for the duration and a few of the stalls were worried that they were going to run out! 6pm came and a big exhale from all parties concerned….then a big breath, quick clean up and time to do it again!

7pm saw similar cues and a similar uptake! Chats with the guys at Cromarty & Thistly Cross Cider soon revealed the underestimation of the average Aberdonain’s drinking capacity. With the rest of the evening chugging along with great music and fun had by all. A successful event and great exposure for the scene in Aberdeen.

Sunday saw a couple of more subdued events with a Jazz Brunch at The Tippling House, an ideal way to shake off the HO’s! After that came a meet the North Hop brewers at six°north Aberdeen. A casual affair with beers and ciders on from the exhibitors and representatives from Brewdog, Thistly Cross, Windswept and 6DN.

All in all a beery and busy weekend!

Roll on North Hop 2015 in Inverness!